The state’s evaluation system, Texas Teacher Evaluation & Support System (T-TESS), consists of three components:
- Goal Setting and Professional Development Plan
- Student Growth Measure
- The Evaluation Cycle
Over the next several weeks, we are going to offer a look at each component. This week we begin with the Goal Setting and Professional Development Plan.
GOAL SETTING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN
Under PDAS, the old evaluation system, teachers took one “snapshot” of themselves when doing the self-report form at the beginning of the school year. T-TESS is intended to promote continuous, professional improvement as seen in the required Goal Setting and Professional Development Plan.
One of the first steps in the T-TESS process is to identify professional goals the teacher wants to attain and the professional development that will help the teacher meet these goals. A Goal Setting and Professional Development Plan will be developed by the teacher and approved by the appraiser. It is important to note that first year teachers or teachers new to the district will be required to have a conference with the appraiser before completing the plan.
The Goal Setting and Professional Development Plan should be updated throughout the year. Sometimes goals can be revisited and adjusted as needed.
Check out this resource for Goal Setting and Professional Development Plan,including examples.
UEA T-TESS Tip
Be realistic in your goal setting. It is great to have those “reach” goals but make sure what you develop is workable. Remember, not all “professional development” activities need to be the “sit and get” kind. It could include working with colleagues or other district professionals in a more informal setting.